Apprentice Tree Climber

City of Aurora•Salt Lake City, UT

25d•$16 - $19•Onsite

About The Position

The Forestry Program within the Park, Recreation, and Open Space Department invites you to join our team as an Apprentice Tree Climber. Through our structured Apprenticeship Development Program, you will receive hands-on, on-the-job training while working directly alongside our experienced forestry crew. This entry-level role is perfect for motivated individuals, as no prior experience is required to start your journey in the green industry. You will play a vital role in maintaining the beauty and safety of our community by pruning trees, operating essential ground machinery, and assisting with storm response. As you master new arborist techniques and competencies, you will be evaluated periodically for step-by-step skill enhancement and long-term career growth. We provide the tools, safety training, and supportive environment you need to succeed, including assistance in obtaining your Commercial Driver's License and CPR certifications. Turn your passion for the outdoors into a fulfilling career and grow with us today.

Requirements

High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent
Entry-level position; prior work experience is not required
Valid driver’s license and ability to operate a city vehicle
Class B Colorado Commercial Driver's License or the ability to obtain within 6 months
CPR and First Aid certification or ability to obtain within 6 months
Knowledge of hazard identification and safety practices common to tree maintenance operations
Knowledge of hand tools and their uses
Knowledge of the principles and techniques of job site safety and maintaining a safe workspace
Skill in learning new techniques and procedures related to tree care and equipment use
Skill in adapting to changing work conditions, including weather and job site environments
Skill in the safe use of basic hand tools (e.g., saws, pruners, hand tools), or ability to quickly learn their proper use
Skill in following instructions to complete manual tasks accurately and efficiently
Skill in basic equipment handling and care, including cleaning and organizing tools
Ability to coordinate activities with other crew members and contribute to a team
Ability to establish and maintain working relationships with employees, managers, and the community
Ability to follow established safety procedures and use protective equipment
Ability to operate equipment including chippers, chainsaws, and other hand tools
Communicate effectively both orally and in writing
Ability to learn technical material quickly and apply lessons consistently
Ability to learn and carry out arborist techniques requiring sustained outdoor physical activity

Nice To Haves

Experience working on a team
Customer service experience
Experience working in the green industries
Experience operating forestry tools and equipment
College-level education in horticulture, natural resources, arboriculture, forestry, or related field

Responsibilities

Follows directives of technicians and lead workers on daily assignments
Prunes, grinds stumps, plants, and waters trees under supervision
Operates machinery needed in ground operations for tree maintenance
Educates and explains forestry standards of street tree maintenance to citizens
Serves as crew leader on volunteer work projects
Maintains equipment for daily use
Performs 24-hour emergency storm response and snow removal duties in coordination with other departments
Maintains a safe working environment
Performs additional duties as assigned